Face oils can feel intimidating, but once you understand which oil to use and when, they become one of the most effective (and luxurious) steps in a skincare routine. Two of the most loved oils are argan oil and prickly pear seed oil—each powerful in its own way.
Here’s how they smell, how to tell if they’re fresh, how to store them (yes, including the fridge!), and how to use them together for the best skin results.
What Should These Oils Smell Like?
Argan Oil
Fresh argan oil has:
-
A light, warm, nutty scent
-
A soft, earthy aroma that fades quickly on the skin
If the smell disappears after rubbing it in and the texture isn’t sticky, that’s a very good sign. Strong, sour, or “old nuts” smells usually mean the oil has oxidized and should be discarded.
Prickly Pear Seed Oil
Prickly pear seed oil:
-
Has a very mild, green or earthy scent
-
Is usually barely noticeable once applied
Because it’s more delicate, changes in smell happen faster if it’s not stored properly.
Should You Store These Oils in the Fridge?
Prickly Pear Seed Oil: Yes
Prickly pear seed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which makes it powerful—but also more fragile.
Refrigeration helps:
-
Slow oxidation
-
Preserve antioxidants
-
Extend shelf life
It may thicken slightly or look cloudy when cold, which is completely normal. Just warm a drop between your fingers before applying.
Argan Oil: Optional
Argan oil is more stable and does well in:
-
A cool, dark cupboard
-
A tightly sealed dark glass bottle
If you live in a warm climate or don’t use it daily, keeping it in the fridge won’t hurt and can help it last longer.
How to Use Argan Oil and Prickly Pear Seed Oil Together
Morning Routine: Protection & Glow
Best choice: Argan oil
Argan oil is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants that help support the skin barrier and defend against environmental stress like sun exposure and pollution (though it does not replace sunscreen).
How to use:
Cleanse
Apply toner or essence (optional)
-
On slightly damp skin, press 1–2 drops of argan oil
Follow with moisturizer if needed
Finish with sunscreen
Argan oil layers beautifully under SPF and helps keep skin comfortable, nourished, and glowing throughout the day.
Night Routine: Repair & Renewal
Best choice: Prickly pear seed oil
Prickly pear seed oil is especially rich in linoleic acid and antioxidants that support overnight repair. Because it’s more delicate, nighttime use helps preserve its benefits.
How to use:
Cleanse
Apply hydrating steps (toner/serum)
Moisturizer
-
Press 1–2 drops of prickly pear seed oilinto the skin as the final step
This is when your skin can fully focus on recovery, hydration, and regeneration.
Extra-Dry Skin? Try Layering at Night
For deeper nourishment:
-
Apply 1 drop of prickly pear seed oil first(treatment step)
-
Follow with 1–2 drops of argan oil to seal everything in
This combination hydrates deeply while strengthening the skin barrier—without clogging pores.
How Much Oil Is Enough?
More is not better with face oils. Skin should feel soft and comfortable, not slick. If your face still feels oily after 10 minutes, use less next time. A few drops go a long way.
Final Thoughts
If your argan oil is light golden in color, smells gently nutty, fades on the skin, and doesn’t feel sticky—you’re using a good one. Keeping prickly pear seed oil in the fridge is a smart move, and argan oil gives you flexibility for both morning and night use.